Labor Unions Demand Protections for International Students
Members of several labor unions, including the Campus Workers Coalition, gathered on the Main Quad on Wednesday, advocating for enhanced protections for international students and calling for universities to sever financial ties with companies that work with immigration and customs authorities.
Coalition Voices Concerns Over University Partnerships
Representatives from the Graduate Employees Organization (GEO), the Non-Tenured Faculty Union (NTFC), and Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 73 spoke passionately at the event, highlighting the urgent need for institutional support for immigrant communities.
Petition Calls for Stronger Community Protections
Organizers encouraged attendees to sign a petition urging universities to strengthen community protections against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The petition also calls for the termination of partnerships with companies that are involved with ICE.
Specific Requests Include Public Awareness Initiatives
The petition outlines several specific actions, such as posting signs prohibiting ICE activities outside non-public spaces on campus, and utilizing Illini Alerts to swiftly inform the university community about ICE presence.
Criticism of Companies Linked to University Operations
Ricky Baldwin, assistant director of SEIU Local 73’s Downstate Division, criticized various companies associated with the university and the NCAA. He stated that these companies profit from inhumane treatment of individuals based on their immigration status.
University Responds to Contractual Allegations
In response to these accusations, Patrick Wade, director of executive communications and issues management at the university, issued an email statement to the Daily Illini, clarifying that there is no direct contract between the university and GlobalX. Instead, he explained that the Fighting Illini Athletics partners with Anthony Travel, a prominent travel agency, for flight arrangements.
Criticism of Other Companies for Their Practices
Other companies, such as Hilton Hotels, have come under scrutiny for their business practices. Organizers noted recent controversies, including partnerships with franchises reluctant to cooperate with ICE. Through Anthony Travel, the university offers special rates at various Hilton properties in the Champaign-Urbana area, raising concerns about the implications of these affiliations.
Highlighting the Importance of Diverse Workforce Protections
Emma Walters, co-chair of GEO’s Solidarity Committee, emphasized the critical role that immigrant graduate workers play in the university’s success. She expressed that the institution must provide better safeguards for both workers and students to ensure a thriving educational environment.
GEO’s Negotiation Process Underway
Amidst ongoing negotiations for a new agreement with university administrators, GEO aims to secure higher wages, full exemptions, and protections for foreign workers. With another negotiation session on the horizon, GEO member Ksenia Osterhout highlighted the importance of public advocacy, asserting that petitions can effectively exert pressure on university decision-makers.
Future Plans for Rally and Community Engagement
If the petition gathers sufficient support, which Osterhout anticipates, GEO intends to hold a rally to present the signatures to university leadership, amplifying their demand for change and enhanced support for international students.
